BEECH 300 near Minneapolis, MN — 2010-12-10

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to follow the aircraft checklist in locking the cabin door prior to departure which resulted in its in-flight separation.

NTSB narrative

The cabin entry door separated from the airplane during climb and was found about 6 miles from the departure airport. The airplane returned to the departure airport and landed without further incident. The door handle was found to be in the latch position and not in the lock position. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the door system.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Mechanical failure

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have checked door security before departure.

NTSB coding

• Part(s) separation from AC · Enroute-climb to cruise
• Checklist Use

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Record of Conversation - FAA 01/26/11other
• Record of Conversation - FAA 12/16/10other
• FAA Provided Photos of Cabin Doorphotos

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